1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Citroen C5
To start off, 2012 Citroen C5 is newer by 41 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, 2012 Citroen C5 (205 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C5 weights approximately 217 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. 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, 2012 Citroen C5, 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, 2012 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Citroen C5 | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 3 | C5 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2946 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
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 | 1597 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |