1984 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 316 (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 186 kg more than 1984 BMW 316.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
