2006 Opel Astra vs. 1979 BMW M1
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 65 kg more than 1979 BMW M1.
Because 1979 BMW M1 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 1979 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1979 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1979 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1979 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M1 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.1 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 116 L |
