1996 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Citroen C2

To start off, 2003 Citroen C2 is newer by 7 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 @ 5400 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C2. (58 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 879 kg more than 2003 Citroen C2. 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, 2003 Citroen C2, 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 2003 Citroen C2. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C2.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 540 2003 Citroen C2
Make BMW Citroen
Model 540 C2
Year Released 1996 2003
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4397 cc 1124 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 282 HP 58 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 440 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 72 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 69 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 158 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.3 seconds 14.4 seconds
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 936 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 3670 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2320 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 9 L/100km 4.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 18.7 L/100km 7.6 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.6 L/100km 5.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 41 L