2003 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 318 | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |