2009 BMW 120 vs. 1979 BMW 732
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 732. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 732 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 732 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 732 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 732 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 BMW 732 weights approximately 174 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 732. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW 732. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1979 BMW 732 has manual transmission. 1979 BMW 732 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1979 BMW 732 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | 732 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 100 L |
