2003 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, both 2003 BMW X3 and 2003 Opel Astra were released in the same year (2003). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | X3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 53 L |
