1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Citroen C6

To start off, 2012 Citroen C6 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C6 (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C6 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C6 weights approximately 437 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. 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, 2012 Citroen C6, 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 Citroen C6 (440 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2012 Citroen C6 has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Citroen C6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 BMW 3 2012 Citroen C6
Make BMW Citroen
Model 3 C6
Year Released 1974 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2720 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 200 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 440 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 17.3:1
Top Speed 214 km/hour 230 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.5 seconds 9.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1433 kg 1870 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4910 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2910 mm