2005 BMW 525 vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Holden Astra would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden 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, both vehicles can yield 250 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1999 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 1999 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 525 | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2610 mm |
