2004 BMW 325 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 325 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 325 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 325 | Astra |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1005 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |