1962 BMW 700 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1962 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 345 kg more than 1962 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 700 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 1962 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Opel Astra (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 700. (52 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 700 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 700 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
