1997 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 318 | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |