2004 Opel Astra vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 76 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (99 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
