1996 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 523 | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |