2009 BMW 523 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
