1972 BMW 3 vs. 2001 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (72 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2001 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2001 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
