2008 BMW 523 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel 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 71 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Opel 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, 2006 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 12.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
