2008 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 240 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1988 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Astro |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2830 mm |
