1996 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2004 Opel Vectra.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 1996 BMW 525. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 248 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
