2009 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525. 2009 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| 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 | 215 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
