1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 130 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Vectra. (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Vectra. 2004 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 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 | 1393 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 61 L |
