1973 BMW 3 vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 90 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 15.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2770 mm |
