1989 BMW 850 vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara

To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 452 kg more than 2009 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara. 2009 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 850 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 BMW 850 2009 Citroen Xsara
Make BMW Citroen
Model 850 Xsara
Year Released 1989 2009
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4988 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 296 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 18.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1792 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 54 L