2008 BMW 550 vs. 1982 Vauxhall Astra

To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2008 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1982 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1982 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 1982 Vauxhall Astra
Make BMW Vauxhall
Model 550 Astra
Year Released 2008 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1196 cc
Horse Power 360 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 88 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 61 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 840 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm