2009 BMW 120 vs. 1996 BMW 530

To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 530 (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 530 weights approximately 195 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, 1996 BMW 530 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 530 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 1996 BMW 530
Make BMW BMW
Model 120 530
Year Released 2009 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2793 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 154 HP 193 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3950 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 84.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1515 kg
Vehicle Length 4250 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1750 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2840 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 67 L


 

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