2009 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 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 269 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Vectra. (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Vectra. 2005 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
