1958 BMW 600 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 600 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1958 BMW 600. (20 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 835 kg more than 1958 BMW 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 BMW 600 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 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 600. (38 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 600. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1958 BMW 600 has manual transmission. 1958 BMW 600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 600 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 583 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 38 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2910 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1710 mm | 2620 mm |
