1988 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (205 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen Xsara. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 525 2008 Citroen Xsara
Make BMW Citroen
Model 525 Xsara
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2441 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 239 Nm 205 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 203 km/hour 180 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.6 seconds 13.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1605 kg 1275 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4190 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 54 L