2009 Opel Astra vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 250 kg more than 2012 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 51 L |
