1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 14 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), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 33 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, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| 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 | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
