2003 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (152 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 53 L |
