1988 BMW 524 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 230 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 524 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
