2008 BMW 325 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 325 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 325 | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |