1983 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 115 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
