1981 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (121 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
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, 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
