2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (155 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
