2002 Opel Astra vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 115 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 1981 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (256 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Astra | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M1 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
