1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
