1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 34 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 252 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 3 | Vectra |
Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3175 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 248 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1626 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |