1999 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. Both 1999 BMW 318 and 2009 Opel Astra are equipped with a 1,796 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 180 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
