2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 260 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |
