1978 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 520 | Astra |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |