1990 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra

To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 558 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 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 1990 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2004 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2004 Opel Vectra
Make BMW Opel
Model 316 Vectra
Year Released 1990 2004
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2958 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 370 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1638 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2840 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 61 L