1995 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 16 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 43 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (239 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW M3 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
