1989 Citroen BX vs. 1972 ZIL 117
To start off, 1989 Citroen BX is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,959 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 ZIL 117 (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1989 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 ZIL 117 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 ZIL 117 weights approximately 2020 kg more than 1989 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 ZIL 117 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 1972 ZIL 117. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen BX, 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, 1972 ZIL 117 (570 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen BX. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen BX. 1972 ZIL 117 has automatic transmission and 1989 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1989 Citroen BX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 ZIL 117 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen BX | 1972 ZIL 117 | |
| Make | Citroen | ZIL |
| Model | BX | 117 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 6959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3310 mm |
