1988 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (64 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1999 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 72.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 44 L |
