1982 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1982 BMW 318. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 605 kg more than 1982 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 BMW 318 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 1982 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 BMW 318. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 318 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
