1988 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Citroen C5
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 21 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. 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, 2009 Citroen C5, 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, 2009 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2009 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 66 L |
