2005 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X3 (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 775 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 X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (420 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | X3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
