1997 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 14 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), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (216 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 170 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 2011 BMW 125 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 2011 BMW 125. 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, 2011 BMW 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 125 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
