2005 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 3 kg more than 2005 BMW 318.
Because 2005 BMW 318 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
