1997 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2006 Opel Vectra. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Vectra. (220 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
