2009 BMW X3 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2012 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |
