1983 BMW 323 vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 323 weights approximately 27 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 323 1999 Citroen Xsara
Make BMW Citroen
Model 323 Xsara
Year Released 1983 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2315 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 205 Nm 137 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 78.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.8 mm 82 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1127 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2550 mm