1995 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 167 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW M3 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
