1998 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 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 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 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 @ 3900 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 318 | Astra |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 128 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |