1989 BMW 850 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 131 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
