1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
