1990 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 520 (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 392 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1990 BMW 520 (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
