1995 BMW 317 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 45 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 317 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
