1990 BMW 850 vs. 1971 Citroen DS
To start off, 1990 BMW 850 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen DS would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1971 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Citroen DS, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 850 | 1971 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 850 | DS |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 297 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3140 mm |
