1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW 128
To start off, 2011 BMW 128 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 128 weights approximately 465 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 BMW 128 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 BMW 128. 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 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW 128 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 128 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4361 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2659 mm |
