2008 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (118 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 97 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 523 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
