1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall Astra.
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, 2004 Vauxhall 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, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (255 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2004 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
