1996 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 (305 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (281 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 281 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 90.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |