2001 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Vauxhall 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 M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 61 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |