1997 BMW 850 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (238 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 552 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 850 (490 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (320 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
