1996 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
