1991 BMW M12 vs. 2012 BMW 330
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 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 40 more horse power than 2012 BMW 330. (256 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 330.
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 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2012 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2810 mm |
