2004 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 402 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall 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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Vauxhall Astra | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1418 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
