1996 BMW 540 vs. 2000 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 4 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP) has 210 more horse power than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2000 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 735 kg more than 2000 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, 2000 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 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2000 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 540 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| 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 | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
