2003 BMW 530 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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 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 67 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 470 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 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, 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 530 (501 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 530 2005 Opel Astra
Make BMW Opel
Model 530 Astra
Year Released 2003 2005
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 501 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 90.4 mm
Acceleration 0-100mph 7.1 seconds 8.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 5.5 L/100km 4.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 9.5 L/100km 7.4 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 6.9 L/100km 5.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 52 L