1993 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1993 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 465 kg more than 1993 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 BMW 518 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 1993 BMW 518. 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 518 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1625 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 |
