2009 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Holden Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Holden Astra would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 2001 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2001 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Holden 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Holden Astra. 2001 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2001 Holden Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
