1987 BMW 320 vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 123 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1987 BMW 320. (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 123 weights approximately 267 kg more than 1987 BMW 320. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 123 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
