1983 BMW 525 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 23 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 2,691 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 15 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2691 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
