1983 BMW 323 vs. 1989 Citroen XM
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 187 kg more than 1983 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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, 1989 Citroen XM (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 1989 Citroen XM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 323 | XM |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
