1988 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel 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 47 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 210 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 221 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |