1972 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 33 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 108 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 9 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
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, 2005 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| 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 | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4190 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 |
