2004 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 520 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 520 weights approximately 420 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 520 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
