1983 BMW 323 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 14 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 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 323 (148 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 323 weights approximately 107 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1997 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1983 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 323 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 14.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
