For fans of older European vehicles, the Opel Ascona isn\u2019t exactly special per se but there\u2019s more to it than you might think. The third and final generation of the model, produced between 1981 and 1988, helped the German brand with the transition to the 1990s when cars generally became more sophisticated, comfortable, and loaded with tech. The Ascona C was Opel’s first effort for a relatively affordable yet large, well-equipped, and practical car driven by its front wheels. While it was never sold in the United States, it had the same bones \u2013 GM\u2019s J platform \u2013 as the Chevrolet Cavalier CL, Pontiac J2000 LE, Oldsmobile Firenza LX, Buick Skyhawk Limited, and Cadillac Cimarron sold at this side of the big pond.<\/p>\n
Welcome to Timeless European Treasures, our weekly look back at cars from the European market that defined a motoring generation.<\/em><\/p>\n