2003 BMW 520 vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 602 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (149 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1995 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1995 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 520 | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1098 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |