1988 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Citroen XM
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (169 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 220 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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 M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1989 Citroen XM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | XM |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
