1972 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 111 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
