1998 Opel Astra vs. 2009 BMW 650
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 650 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 2009 BMW 650. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2009 BMW 650 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2009 BMW 650 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 650 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2009 BMW 650 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 650 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2790 mm |
