1972 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1362 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2000 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |