2009 BMW 120 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 74 kg more than 2009 BMW 120.
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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 120 | Alero |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 53 L |
