1996 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2008 Opel Insignia. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Insignia.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Insignia, 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Insignia. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Insignia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2008 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2737 mm |
