1996 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 M3 (320 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 144 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 203 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |