1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2011 Opel Insignia is newer by 15 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 7 more horse power than 2011 Opel Insignia. (321 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Insignia.
Because 2011 Opel Insignia is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Opel Insignia will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Opel Insignia (435 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| 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 |
