1956 BMW Isetta vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1956 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1956 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1956 BMW Isetta has manual transmission. 1956 BMW Isetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW Isetta | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Isetta | 120 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 175 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2670 mm |
