2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (177 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 BMW 120 (350 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
