2008 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 4 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 3999 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 63 L |
