2008 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
