2006 Opel Astra vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 135 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 318 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 63 L |
