1997 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 15 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 97 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 260 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, 2012 BMW 120 (300 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 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 | 240 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
