2003 BMW 530 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 BMW 530 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 530 (501 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 530 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 530 | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 501 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |