1974 BMW 3 vs. 1955 Citroen 2CV
To start off, 1974 BMW 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 875 kg more than 1955 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1955 Citroen 2CV | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 3 | 2CV |
Year Released | 1974 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 425 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 12 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 23 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 62 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 63 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 558 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3610 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |