2008 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| 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 | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
