2002 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
