1996 BMW 540 vs. 1998 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP) has 208 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1998 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara 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 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 540 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
