1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW 135
To start off, 2012 BMW 135 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 135 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 135 weights approximately 390 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 135 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 135. 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 135 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 135 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 135 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 135 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4374 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 53 L |
