1979 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2012 Porsche 911. (400 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche 911 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 320 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4491 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1295 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2451 mm |
