1990 BMW 520 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 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, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
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, 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 (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| 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 | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
