1972 Citroen GS vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen GS would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 359 more horse power than 1972 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 995 kg more than 1972 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen GS, 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen GS | 2012 BMW M3 | |
Make | Citroen | BMW |
Model | GS | M3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1015 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | boxer | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 55 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 72 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 63 L |