1985 Citroen C vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Citroen C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Citroen C would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1985 Citroen C. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1985 Citroen C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Citroen C, 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen C. (70 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Citroen C | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | C | M3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 953 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 63 L |
