1997 Opel Astra vs. 2008 BMW 118
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 380 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 2008 BMW 118 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 2008 BMW 118. 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, 2008 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 2008 BMW 118 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. 2008 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2008 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 118 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
