2001 BMW M vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
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 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M. (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M. 2011 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M 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:
| 2001 BMW M | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 51 L |
