1977 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Toyota Prius

To start off, 2011 Toyota Prius is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Prius (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1977 BMW 320. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Prius weights approximately 260 kg more than 1977 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1977 BMW 320 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 1977 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Prius, 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, 1977 BMW 320 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Prius. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Prius.

Compare all specifications:

1977 BMW 320 2011 Toyota Prius
Make BMW Toyota
Model 320 Prius
Year Released 1977 2011
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 122 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual CVT
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1120 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4360 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1745 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1491 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 45 L