1968 BMW 1600 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1968 BMW 1600. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 435 kg more than 1968 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 BMW 1600 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 1600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 52 L |
