2009 BMW 650 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 155 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 650 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 650. 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 650 (491 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 BMW 650 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 650 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 650 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 650 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
