1998 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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. Both 1998 BMW 318 and 2006 Opel Astra are equipped with a 1,796 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel 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 120 kg more than 2006 Opel 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
