2009 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 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 291 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 101 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| 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 | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
