2003 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 22 kg more than 2003 BMW 320.
Because 2003 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 200 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 320 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
