2004 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 7 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (241 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 17.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 63 L |
