2004 Opel Astra vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 10 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
