2005 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2005 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 320 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
