2008 BMW 540 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 12 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 2008 BMW 540. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 540 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 82 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
