1981 BMW 725 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 1981 BMW 725. 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 725 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2610 mm |
