2005 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 618 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 BMW M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (104 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2600 mm |
