2009 BMW 120 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 120 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 270 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 120 | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1424 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |