1981 Citroen LN vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen LN. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen LN would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1981 Citroen LN. (35 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen LN. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1981 Citroen LN. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Citroen LN, 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen LN. (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen LN. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Citroen LN has manual transmission. 1981 Citroen LN will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Citroen LN | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | LN | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 51 L |
