2008 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 282 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 330 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 330. 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 330 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 330 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
