2009 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Vauxhall 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 340 more horse power than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2005 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall 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 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2005 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
