1987 Citroen BX vs. 1983 Renault 5
To start off, 1987 Citroen BX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Renault 5 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1987 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Renault 5 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1987 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Citroen BX, 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 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen BX. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1983 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen BX | 1983 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | BX | 5 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 51 L |
