1971 BMW 3 vs. 1994 Citroen XM
To start off, 1994 Citroen XM is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1994 Citroen XM. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Citroen XM weights approximately 15 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1994 Citroen XM, 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 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Citroen XM. (180 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Citroen XM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1994 Citroen XM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | XM |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2860 mm |
