1959 Citroen DS vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen DS 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 340 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 757 kg more than 1959 Citroen DS. 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, 1959 Citroen DS, 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) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | DS | M3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 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 | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
