1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 16 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 435 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 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. 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, 2012 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
