1988 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 16 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 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 90 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 230 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 | 1296 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 52 L |
