1988 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 16 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 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2004 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (255 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2004 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1291 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 54 L |
