2003 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 372 kg more than 2005 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, 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
