2008 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2011 Opel Insignia is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2011 Opel Insignia. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Insignia.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Insignia. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Insignia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2011 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2737 mm |
