1979 Citroen GSA vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Citroen GSA, 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen GSA | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | GSA | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 156 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2450 mm |
