2003 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 9 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 77 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 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.5 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
