1974 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 173 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2400 mm |