1981 BMW 725 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 1981 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 725 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2620 mm |
