2005 Opel Astra vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1445 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
