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. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 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. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 70 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, 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 151 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
