1956 BMW 507 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 507. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 507 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 507 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1956 BMW 507. (148 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 507. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 171 kg more than 1956 BMW 507. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 BMW 507 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 507. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 507. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 507.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 507 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 507 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 52 L |
