2001 BMW M3 vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 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 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2000 Opel Astra. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2000 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, 2000 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 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
