1990 BMW 850 vs. 2005 Opel Astra

To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 850 2005 Opel Astra
Make BMW Opel
Model 850 Astra
Year Released 1990 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4988 cc 1388 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 297 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 80.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1790 kg 1250 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 3010 mm