2009 BMW 120 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 20 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 51 L |
