2007 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 575 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 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 2007 BMW 318. 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 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 318 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
