2008 BMW 120 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 120 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 21 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 120 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 52 L |
