2009 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1999 Opel Vectra. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Vectra. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
