1988 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2001 Opel Vectra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 285 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra. 2001 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
