1975 BMW 1602 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 1602. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 1602 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1975 BMW 1602. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 1602. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 270 kg more than 1975 BMW 1602. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 1602 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 1975 BMW 1602. 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, 1998 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 1602. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 1602.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 1602 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 1602 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1574 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
