2009 BMW 120 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 540 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.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 67 L |
