2008 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
