1986 BMW 325 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 1986 BMW 325.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1986 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 325 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1200 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
