1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Opel Insignia. (177 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Insignia.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Insignia. (230 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Insignia. 2012 Opel Insignia has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2737 mm |
