2003 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Oldsmobile Alero | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | BMW |
| Model | Alero | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 53 L |
