1962 BMW 1800 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1800. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 721 kg more than 1962 BMW 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1800 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 1962 BMW 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1800. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1800. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1962 BMW 1800 has manual transmission. 1962 BMW 1800 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1800 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 1800 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1771 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
