2008 Opel Astra vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 585 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 2011 BMW 520 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 520. 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 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2011 BMW 520 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. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
