1991 BMW M12 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 21 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 120 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (176 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120.
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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| 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 | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
