2008 BMW 318 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 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 318 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 70 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (127 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
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, 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | 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 | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
