2009 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 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 241 more horse power than 2008 Opel Vectra. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 265 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2008 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 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Vectra. (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.4 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 | 1320 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
