2008 BMW 330 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (300 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 330 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
