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 106 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 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 300 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 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 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1445 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
