1996 BMW 535 vs. 2004 Citroen C5

To start off, 2004 Citroen C5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C5. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2004 Citroen C5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C5. (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C5.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 535 2004 Citroen C5
Make BMW Citroen
Model 535 C5
Year Released 1996 2004
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3498 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 235 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 75.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.9 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 18.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1610 kg 1607 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2760 mm