1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 52 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Vectra | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
