2009 BMW 120 vs. 1983 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1983 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1983 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1983 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Honda Ballade, 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, 2009 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Honda Ballade. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1983 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1983 Honda Ballade 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 | 1983 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 120 | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1335 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2330 mm |
