1973 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Citroen C3
To start off, 2002 Citroen C3 is newer by 29 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 2002 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen C3 weights approximately 9 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, 2002 Citroen C3, 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 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen C3. (115 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen C3. 2002 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2002 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
