1959 BMW 700 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 440 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 1959 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (137 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 700 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1585 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2550 mm |
