1981 BMW 725 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 725 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
