2009 BMW 325 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 325 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 44 L |
