1988 BMW 524 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 524 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1589 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
