2003 Opel Astra vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 372 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 2008 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 2008 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 530 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
