1977 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (123 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 323 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 BMW 520 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1977 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1977 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
