1996 Opel Astra vs. 2007 BMW 545
To start off, 2007 BMW 545 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 545 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2007 BMW 545 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2007 BMW 545 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 545 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
