2009 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 BMW 323. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 323.
Because 2009 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 323 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
