2007 BMW 116 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 BMW 116 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 116 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 116 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 116 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 2007 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 BMW 116 (150 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 116 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 116 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
