2005 BMW 325 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 BMW 325 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 305 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 325 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 325 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2620 mm |
