1981 BMW 518 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 10 kg more than 1981 BMW 518.
Because 1981 BMW 518 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 518 | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |