2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 432 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | X3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
