1979 BMW 728 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 728. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 728 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 728 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 728 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 728 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 BMW 728 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 BMW 728 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 1979 BMW 728. 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, 1979 BMW 728 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 BMW 728 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 728 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 728 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
