The Opel Ascona C CC 1.6 S, produced between 1981 and 1986, represented a key variant within the Ascona C range, Opel’s competitor in the compact family car segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the 1.6 S aimed to balance affordability with a reasonable level of performance and equipment. The “CC” designation signified the *Coupé Caravan* body style – a five-door hatchback – which was becoming increasingly popular in Europe during this period. This model was primarily sold within European markets, offering a practical and relatively economical option for families and commuters. It was built on the GM T-platform, shared with other models like the Vauxhall Cavalier and Isuzu Aska.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Ascona |
| Generation | Ascona C CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 S (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1981 |
| End of production | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 124.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 126 Nm @ 3800-4200 rpm (92.93 lb.-ft. @ 3800-4200 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | 16SH |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 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 | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1015 kg (2237.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1215 l (42.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4264 mm (167.87 in.) |
| Width | 1668 mm (65.67 in.) |
| Height | 1385 mm (54.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2574 mm (101.34 in.) |
| Front track | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.38 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.95 m (35.93 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Ascona C CC 1.6 S was powered by the Opel 16SH engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder unit. This engine, part of Opel’s established S series, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a carburetor, a common feature for vehicles of this era, though increasingly being replaced by fuel injection in higher-spec models. The 16SH produced 90 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) of torque between 3800 and 4200 rpm. The engine’s relatively modest output was typical for a family car of this displacement in the early 1980s. The transmission was a four-speed manual gearbox, providing a straightforward driving experience. While an automatic transmission was offered on some Ascona C models, it wasn’t typically paired with the 1.6 S engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 S offered a practical, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 11.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 105 mph. The carburetor-fed engine delivered smooth, predictable power, but lacked the responsiveness of fuel-injected counterparts or the higher-output 1.8 and 2.0-liter engines available in the Ascona range. The four-speed manual gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing adequate ratios for everyday driving. The front-wheel-drive layout offered predictable handling, although it wasn’t as engaging as rear-wheel-drive alternatives. Compared to the more powerful Ascona models, the 1.6 S prioritized fuel economy and ease of use over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ascona C CC 1.6 S was positioned as a mid-range trim level. Standard equipment typically included cloth upholstery, basic instrumentation, and a four-speaker stereo. Power steering and central locking were often optional extras. The interior design was functional and durable, reflecting the car’s focus on practicality. Exterior features included steel wheels with hubcaps, black plastic trim, and relatively simple body styling. Optional extras could include upgraded upholstery, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. The trim level aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle without the higher price tag of the more luxurious Ascona variants.
Chassis & Braking
The Ascona C CC featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid axle rear suspension. The front suspension provided a comfortable ride and predictable handling, while the rear suspension prioritized load-carrying capacity. Braking was handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. This configuration was common for vehicles in this price range during the 1980s. The braking system provided adequate stopping power for everyday driving, but lacked the sophistication of all-disc setups found on higher-spec models. Stabilizer bars were typically fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ascona C CC 1.6 S was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable family car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, it was often criticized for its relatively modest performance and somewhat dated carburetor-based engine. Compared to the Ascona 1.8 and 2.0-liter models, the 1.6 S offered less power and acceleration, but it was also more fuel-efficient and less expensive to purchase. The 1.6 S also competed with other compact family cars such as the Ford Escort, Vauxhall Cavalier, and Volkswagen Golf.
Legacy
The Opel Ascona C CC 1.6 S, while not a particularly rare or collectible model, remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. The 16SH engine is known for its reliability and relative simplicity, making it relatively easy to maintain. However, finding parts can sometimes be challenging, as production ceased over three decades ago. Today, well-maintained examples of the Ascona C CC 1.6 S are sought after by those looking for a nostalgic and affordable classic car. Its enduring appeal lies in its practicality, durability, and representation of a bygone era of automotive design.
