1996 BMW 523 vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 BMW 523 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 523 | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |