1996 BMW 530 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 530 (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 530 weights approximately 117 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 530 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 530 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
