1996 BMW 332 vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1999 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 332 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
