1998 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
