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 230 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 3500 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 550 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 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (260 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 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
