2009 BMW 120 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 17 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
