1981 BMW 528 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 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 45 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.

Because 1981 BMW 528 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 528. 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 528 2005 Opel Astra
Make BMW Opel
Model 528 Astra
Year Released 1981 2005
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 1908 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 181 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4300 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 1950 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 18.5:1
Top Speed 212 km/hour 188 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1345 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4120 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 52 L