1973 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 206 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
