1997 Opel Astra vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
