2009 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 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 2011 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 127 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra. 2011 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. 2011 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.6 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.9 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
