2000 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2000 BMW 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 323 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2000 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2000 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 323 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
