2003 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.
Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1215 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
