1997 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 10 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 313 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (355 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
