2009 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla, 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 320 (191 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 1997 Toyota Corolla
Make BMW Toyota
Model 320 Corolla
Year Released 2009 1997
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 191 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1210 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2470 mm