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 206 more horse power than 2008 Opel Vectra. (208 HP @ 6200 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. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 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, 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Vectra. (300 Nm @ 4000 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 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 248 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
