1996 BMW 540 vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2000 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2000 Opel Astra. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 635 kg more than 2000 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 540 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
