2004 BMW M3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 449 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (350 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 51 L |
