1998 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW 116
To start off, 2012 BMW 116 is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 116 (116 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 116 weights approximately 195 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 2012 BMW 116 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 2012 BMW 116. 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, 2012 BMW 116 (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 116 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
