1972 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 31 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 24 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
