1995 BMW 317 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 17 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 43 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, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317. 2012 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 317 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
