1998 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 490 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2012 BMW Z4 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. 2012 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| 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 | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2497 mm |
