1988 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 15 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 101 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Holden 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, 2003 Holden 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2003 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2610 mm |
