1981 BMW 525 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
