2004 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 8 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (193 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 346 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 2004 BMW 525 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 2004 BMW 525. 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, 2004 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
