2008 BMW 540 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 540. 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 540 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
