1951 Citroen 2CV vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Citroen 2CV 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 404 more horse power than 1951 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1951 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1951 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1951 Citroen 2CV, 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Citroen 2CV | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | 2CV | M3 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 374 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 63 L |
