1996 BMW M3 vs. 1983 Opel Senator
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Senator would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1983 Opel Senator. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1983 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Senator. (189 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1983 Opel Senator | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Senator |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
