1991 BMW M12 vs. 2009 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318. 2009 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2009 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
