2008 BMW 118 vs. 2003 Opel Astra

To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 118 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 2008 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 BMW 118 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 118 2003 Opel Astra
Make BMW Opel
Model 118 Astra
Year Released 2008 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1388 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 77.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 52 L