1996 BMW 540 vs. 1951 Citroen 11
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Citroen 11. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Citroen 11 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1951 Citroen 11. (55 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1951 Citroen 11. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1951 Citroen 11. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1951 Citroen 11, 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. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1951 Citroen 11 has manual transmission. 1951 Citroen 11 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1951 Citroen 11 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 540 | 11 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3100 mm |
