1983 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra

To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (165 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 385 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (266 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 316 2004 Opel Vectra
Make BMW Opel
Model 316 Vectra
Year Released 1983 2004
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1765 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 165 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 266 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 86 mm
Top Speed 171 km/hour 230 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1375 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2740 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 60 L