2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 620 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 X3 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 X3. 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | X3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
