1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 325 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 262 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1625 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |