1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Alpina B7
To start off, 2011 Alpina B7 is newer by 13 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 408 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B7 weights approximately 670 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 2011 Alpina B7 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 2011 Alpina B7. 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, 2011 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 512 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2011 Alpina B7 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. 2011 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2011 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Opel | Alpina |
| Model | Astra | B7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 88 L |
