1972 BMW 520 vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 520 (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (149 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
