1973 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 525 weights approximately 82 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. 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, 1973 BMW 525 (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
