2005 BMW 320 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 320. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
