The Opel Ascona A 2-door 1.2 S, produced between September 1972 and July 1975, represented the entry point into the Ascona A range, Opel’s competitor in the mid-size European market. Positioned as a practical and affordable family car, the 1.2 S offered a balance of economy and usability. The Ascona A, internally designated as the 1HX0, was a significant model for Opel, aiming to modernize their lineup and appeal to a broader customer base. The 2-door configuration, while less common than the 4-door, provided a slightly sportier aesthetic and was aimed at buyers prioritizing value and simplicity. This variant played a crucial role in establishing the Ascona as a popular choice in Europe, particularly in Germany, the United Kingdom, and other key markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Ascona |
| Generation | Ascona A 2-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 S (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 1972 |
| End of production | July, 1975 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 19 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 19 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 18.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 137 km/h (85.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.1 kg/Hp, 71 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.4 kg/Nm, 106.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 90 Nm @ 2600-3400 rpm (66.38 lb.-ft. @ 2600-3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 12S |
| Engine displacement | 1196 cm3 (72.98 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 61 mm (2.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 845 kg (1862.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1270 kg (2799.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 307 l (10.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 46 l (12.15 US gal | 10.12 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Length | 4124 mm (162.36 in.) |
| Width | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Height | 1385 mm (54.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2430 mm (95.67 in.) |
| Front track | 1331 mm (52.4 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1320 mm (51.97 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.48 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.76 m (32.02 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/80 R13; 165/80 R13; 185/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13; 5.5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Ascona A 1.2 S was the 1196cc inline-four cylinder engine, designated the 12S. This engine featured a relatively simple overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain and utilized a single carburetor for fuel delivery. The 12S engine produced 60 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 90 Nm (66.38 lb-ft) of torque between 2600 and 3400 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The four-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a straightforward driving experience. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and fuel economy over outright performance, reflecting the car’s intended role as a practical family vehicle. The carbureted fuel system, while simple, required periodic adjustment to maintain optimal performance and emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The Ascona A 1.2 S, with its 60 horsepower and relatively lightweight construction (845 kg or 1863 lbs), offered modest performance. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 18.1 seconds, and the top speed was around 85 mph. Compared to the more powerful Ascona variants, such as the 1.6S or the later injection models, the 1.2 S felt noticeably slower. However, the 1.2 S provided adequate power for everyday driving, particularly in urban and rural environments. The four-speed manual transmission offered a reasonable spread of gears, but the engine lacked the torque to provide strong acceleration in higher gears. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced handling feel, although the suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. The 1.2 S was generally considered to be a comfortable and easy-to-drive car, but it lacked the performance to excite driving enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ascona A 1.2 S was typically equipped with basic but functional features. Standard equipment included cloth upholstery, a basic instrument panel, and manually operated windows and door locks. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample space for passengers and luggage. Optional extras included a radio, a heater, and upgraded upholstery. The trim level was relatively spartan compared to higher-spec Ascona models, but it offered a good value for money. The focus was on providing a reliable and affordable vehicle rather than luxury or advanced features.
Chassis & Braking
The Ascona A featured a traditional body-on-frame construction. The front suspension utilized an independent double wishbone setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a rigid axle with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise steering feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over uneven surfaces. The braking performance was adequate for the car’s weight and performance, but it lacked the stopping power of more modern braking systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ascona A 1.2 S was generally well-received in the market as an affordable and practical family car. Critics praised its reliability, fuel economy, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted its lack of performance and basic interior. Compared to other cars in its class, such as the Ford Cortina and the Vauxhall Victor, the Ascona A 1.2 S offered a competitive package in terms of price and features. The 1.6S variant, with its increased power, was often seen as a more desirable option for drivers seeking better performance, but it came at a higher price point. The 1.2 S appealed to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality over outright performance.
Legacy
The Opel Ascona A 1.2 S, while not the most powerful or luxurious variant of the Ascona A, remains a fondly remembered classic car. The 12S engine proved to be remarkably durable and reliable, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, the Ascona A 1.2 S is valued for its simplicity, affordability, and classic styling. It represents a significant chapter in Opel’s history and a testament to the enduring appeal of well-engineered, practical automobiles. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of enthusiasts continues to support and maintain these classic vehicles.
