1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2011 BMW 120 (340 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2011 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| 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 | 240 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
