2009 BMW 125 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (234 HP) has 19 more horse power than 2009 BMW 125. (215 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 125. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 125 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 234 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
