2007 BMW 550 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 575 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 550 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 550 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
