2003 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2012 Opel Insignia. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Insignia.
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, 2012 Opel Insignia, 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Opel Insignia has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2737 mm |
