2007 BMW 525 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 BMW 525 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 525 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 525 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
