1996 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 316 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 1996 BMW 316 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 1996 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 150 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. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
