2004 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 349 kg more than 2005 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 M3 (350 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Vectra. (300 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
