2008 BMW 120 vs. 1997 Rover 800
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 800 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Rover 800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 800 (173 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Rover 800 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800, 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, 1997 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1997 Rover 800 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 120 | 800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2780 mm |
