1996 BMW 332 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 15 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 185 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (138 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 282 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 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, 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 332 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
