1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (176 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 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:
1973 BMW 3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 120 |
Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 203 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |