1999 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 313 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1770 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
