2001 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 590 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 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, 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 111 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1005 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |