2001 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 3 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), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 270 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 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2620 mm |
