2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z4 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
