1986 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M3 weights approximately 99 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 1986 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 1986 BMW M3. 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 1997 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 13.1 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 | 1170 kg | 1071 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
