1997 BMW 730 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 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 1997 BMW 730 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 730. 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, 1997 BMW 730 (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 730 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 730 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
