1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 495 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1770 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
