1969 BMW 1600 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 BMW 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 399 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 BMW 1600 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 1969 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 BMW 1600 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 1600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 52 L |
