1999 BMW 323 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra

To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (130 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 398 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 323 1988 Opel Vectra
Make BMW Opel
Model 323 Vectra
Year Released 1999 1988
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 130 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 180 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 201 km/hour 201 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1457 kg 1059 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 75 L