2008 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2002 Vauxhall Astra.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall 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, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (255 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 523 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
