1973 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 32 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 79 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (124 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Vectra weights approximately 290 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, 2005 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Vectra. (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Vectra. 2005 Opel 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. 2005 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 98 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
