2008 Opel Astra vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
