1958 BMW 503 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 503 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1958 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 503 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 503 | Astra |
Year Released | 1958 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |