1994 BMW 518 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 518 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1994 BMW 518 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 518 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.4 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 | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 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 |
