1981 BMW 518 vs. 2001 Citroen C3
To start off, 2001 Citroen C3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Citroen C3. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2001 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 518 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Citroen C3. (118 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Citroen C3. 2001 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2001 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 518 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
