1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 107 kg more than 2005 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (270 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2005 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
