1996 BMW 332 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (177 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 332 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
