2001 Opel Astra vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 700 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 2010 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 63 L |
