2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW 323
To start off, 2011 BMW 323 is newer by 8 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (75 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 2011 BMW 323 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 2011 BMW 323. 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, 2011 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
