1992 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW M3 weights approximately 139 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW M3. (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW M3. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1992 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1992 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
