1996 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche 911 (430 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (177 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 911 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, 1996 Porsche 911 (540 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (350 Nm). This means 1996 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Porsche 911 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 911 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 430 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2660 mm |
