2003 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 7 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 200 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 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
