1999 Toyota Prius vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota Prius would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1999 Toyota Prius. (127 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Prius weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 BMW 320.
Because 2012 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 320 (380 Nm) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius. 1999 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota Prius | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Toyota | BMW |
| Model | Prius | 320 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
