1972 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
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, 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 (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
