1984 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 15 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 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Astra (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Astra weights approximately 116 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
