1974 BMW 3 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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 111 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 243 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |