1996 BMW 840 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 840 weights approximately 495 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 840 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 840. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 840 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 840 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 840 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 840 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
