2003 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 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 143 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 261 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 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, 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 M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1181 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |