1990 BMW 320 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1990 BMW 320. (115 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 289 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 BMW 320 (224 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm). This means 1990 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 320 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
