2009 BMW 120 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 520 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 2009 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 120 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
