2009 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 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 325 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra.
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, 2008 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 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2008 Opel 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. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
