1962 BMW 1500 vs. 2003 Citroen C3
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 would be higher. At 1,628 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1500. (80 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1962 BMW 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1500 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 1962 BMW 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, 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, 2003 Citroen C3 (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1500. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1500 | 2003 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 1500 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1628 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2610 mm |
