1990 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 80 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (154 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
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 M3 (240 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 154 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
