2008 BMW 545 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW 545 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 545 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 545 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 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 545 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 545 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1975 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 44 L |
