2005 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 525. 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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2012 BMW 525 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. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 525 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
