2008 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,797 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (355 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 1195 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 (490 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | X5 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4797 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 70 L |
