1971 BMW 3 vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2000 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2000 Opel Astra. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2000 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2640 mm |
