2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 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 266 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Vectra. (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
