Photo credit to JETO TUNING - Opel Ascona C
Opel Ascona remains one of the most iconic German cars from the ’70s and ’80s. But why it was so popular and what made it special?
Produced between 1970 and 1988; it was much more than a family sedan; probably the record holder with over 3.9 million units were sold worldwide.
However, it was solid car and a surprising motorsport pedigree, whether seen on European streets or on rally stages, it has unique place in automotive history; beloved by enthusiasts and collectors alike!
A Legend on the Rally Stage
The Ascona’s crowning achievement came in motorsport.
The Ascona 400, a limited homologiation special, won the 1982 World Rally Championship drivers’ title with Walter Rohrl at the wheel, marking the last time a rear-wheel-drive car would claim the title before all-wheel-drive domination.
However, this rear-wheel-drive marvel combined a lightweight chassis, reliable drivetrain, allowing it to outperform technically advanced competitors like the Audi Quattro.
And with major victories at legendary events like the Monte Carlo Rally, Opel Ascona 400 proved that mechanical balance and driver skill could triumph over cutting-edge tech.
Everyday Car – Opel Ascona
Not only in rally, it grabbed the headlines yes, but Opel Ascona was equally at home as a family car.
Positioned between the smaller Kadett and the larger Rekord, it offered a spacious, comfortable and affordable mid-size option for European drivers.
Its reputation for durability came from straightforward engineering, rebust components and mechanical simplicity.
Germany did an amazing job with this model, drivers could rely on an Ascona for year.
Engaging and Balanced Driving
Most Asconas featured a front engine and rear wheel drive layout, but the Ascona C had transitioned to front wheel drive layout.
However, it gave the car lively handling and a connected driving experience, the chassis balance, combined with responsive steering, made it enjoyable for everyday drives.
Decades later, many enthusiasts still seek these cars – the production ended in 1988, but you can see a lot of them in the street, especially in Germany and in Balkan countries.
A Platform for Enthusiasts
What made it favorite among tuners and hobbyists is the mechanical simplicity of Opel Ascona.
You can use components of models like the Opel Manta, along with reliable engine from the CIH family.
Whether upgrading performance or personalizing styling, the Ascona offered a canvas that rewarded creativity and ingenuity.
Timeless Design
While unassuming, the Ascona’s clean and angular styling has aged gracefully, its boxy, functional lines and especially in later generations, capture the late 1970s and early 1980s design ethos.
The understated look may not turn heads in traffic today, but among classic car lovers, it evokes a sense of authencity and practicality, it was among the best cars in the 80s, it was affordable for many countries in Europe.
The Cosworth Connection
The rally focused Ascona 400 was not just fast, it was engineered with expertise, rally engine was 2.4-liter, 16V; developed alongside British company Cosworth, produced 240-260 horsepower in rally trim, manual transmission with a 5-speed and a limited-slip differential.
Others; like family cars, used engines ranging from 1.2 to 2.0 litres with power outputs between 60 to 100 horsepower.
Ascona 400, road version, publicly sold version of the homologation car had the 2.4-litre V16 engine which produced around 144 hp.
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Versatility for Every Driver
From two and four door sedans to estates and five door hatchbacks, the Ascona catered to a wide audience.
Compact for families and everyone appreciated its space, while enthusiasts could enjoy its rear wheel drive dynamics.
It helped the Ascona achieve success both on the streets and motorsport.
Nostalgia and Collectibility
So what can we say more about it; for many, the Ascona represents a simpler era of motoring.
Its analog driving experience, practical design and the connection to motorsport make it a nostalgic icon, people search for this car every day on the internet; most of the people go for it cos they miss it on the street, but less try to find and buy one, its hard to find well-maintained Opel Ascona in 2025.
However, millions were produced, surviving examples, especially rare AScona 400, are now highly sought after by collectors.
Restored models fetch premium prices and they continue to appear at the classic rallies and vintage car events worldwide.
So how much does an Opel Ascona cost today?
After checking current listings on AutoScout24, prices vary widely depending on condition and model. An Opel Ascona 400 can reach around €27,000 for well-preserved examples, while clean Ascona C models are already listed at around €20,000.
Will the price stay there?
Probably not. Values are unlikely to remain flat, and well-kept Asconas—especially rare or original examples—are expected to become more expensive in the coming years. For true Opel Ascona fans, buying sooner rather than later may make sense. These cars were built to last, and their appeal is only getting stronger.
