1994 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1994 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 520 weights approximately 101 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra.
Because 1994 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 1994 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 520 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
