1981 BMW 520 vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 123 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 107 kg more than 1994 Opel Astra.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
