1996 BMW 545 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 545. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 545 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 545 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 545 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 545 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 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 545 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 545 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 545 | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 69.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |