2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 2011 BMW 325 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 325. 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 325 (400 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 61 L |
