2005 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
