1971 BMW 3 vs. 1959 Citroen DS
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 12 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 60 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 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1959 Citroen DS | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 3 | DS |
Year Released | 1971 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1911 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 137 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3140 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 63 L |