The Opel Ascona B, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 1979, represented a significant step forward for Opel in the compact segment. The 1.3 S variant, producing 75 horsepower, was a mainstay of the lineup from 1979 to 1981. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, it provided affordable transportation with a focus on practicality and fuel economy. The Ascona B, built on the GM T-platform, was Opel’s response to increasing competition from Ford and other European manufacturers, aiming to deliver a comfortable and reliable family car. This generation saw a substantial redesign compared to the original Ascona A, with a more modern aesthetic and improved interior space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Ascona |
| Generation | Ascona B (facelift 1979) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 S (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1979 |
| End of production | 1981 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2-4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.6 kg/Nm, 103.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 4200 rpm (70.81 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | 13S, 13SC |
| Engine displacement | 1297 cm3 (79.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.5 l (2.64 US qt | 2.2 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 925 kg (2039.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1385 kg (3053.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4321 mm (170.12 in.) |
| Width | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2518 mm (99.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1375 mm (54.13 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.46 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.1 m (33.14 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 brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Ascona B 1.3 S was the 1297cc inline-four cylinder engine, designated as either 13S or 13SC depending on minor variations. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a carburetor, a common setup for the time, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness over the more advanced fuel injection systems. The engine produced 75 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 96 Nm (70.81 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The four-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a relatively simple and durable drivetrain. The engine’s design was relatively conventional, focusing on reliability and ease of maintenance rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 S, with its 75 horsepower, wasn’t designed for rapid acceleration. Zero to 60 mph took approximately 14.7 seconds, and top speed was around 96 mph. Compared to the more powerful Ascona variants, such as those equipped with larger engines (like the 1.6 or 2.0-liter options), the 1.3 S felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly suited for city driving and longer journeys where outright speed wasn’t a priority. The four-speed manual transmission provided adequate control, but the gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy over spirited acceleration. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it lacked the handling precision of more modern front-wheel-drive cars.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 S trim level was considered an entry-level offering within the Ascona B range. Standard equipment typically included basic cloth upholstery, vinyl flooring, and a simple dashboard layout. Features like a radio, upgraded interior trim, and power windows were generally optional extras. The focus was on providing a functional and affordable vehicle, with buyers able to customize their Ascona with a range of optional equipment. The exterior trim was relatively understated, with basic chrome accents and steel wheels being common features. Higher trim levels, such as the SR, offered more luxurious appointments and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Ascona B utilized a conventional chassis design with a rear-wheel-drive layout. Suspension consisted of independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a live axle with leaf springs at the rear. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The 1.3 S, being the lighter variant, generally had a slightly softer suspension setup compared to the more powerful models. Stabilizer bars were often optional, and their presence significantly improved handling characteristics. The relatively simple braking system was adequate for everyday driving, but lacked the stopping power of more modern braking technologies.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Ascona B 1.3 S was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, its performance was often criticized as being somewhat lackluster, particularly when compared to competitors like the Ford Taunus or Volkswagen Passat. The 1.3 S offered a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a reliable and economical vehicle, but those prioritizing performance often opted for the larger-engined variants. Fuel economy was a key selling point, making it an attractive option in the late 1970s and early 1980s when fuel prices were rising.
Legacy
The Opel Ascona B 1.3 S, while not a particularly sought-after classic today, represents a significant piece of automotive history. Its simple and robust powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, and many examples are still on the road today. The 13S engine, while not particularly powerful, was known for its durability and ease of maintenance. In the used car market, these Asconas are often found in project car condition, appealing to enthusiasts looking for a classic restoration project. The Ascona B, as a whole, helped establish Opel as a major player in the European automotive market, paving the way for future models like the Vectra.
