2009 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel 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 315 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2005 Opel 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, 2005 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.6 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.9 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
