2003 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 219 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
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, 2001 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (270 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
