1956 BMW 503 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 503 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1956 BMW 503 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1956 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 503 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 52 L |
