1998 BMW 325 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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 189 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 1998 BMW 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 325 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
