1996 BMW 540 vs. 2008 Citroen C2

To start off, 2008 Citroen C2 is newer by 12 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2008 Citroen C2. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen C2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 800 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 297 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen C2. (143 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen C2. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen C2 has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen C2 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 2008 Citroen C2
Make BMW Citroen
Model 540 C2
Year Released 1996 2008
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4396 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 282 HP 126 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 440 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 78.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 82 mm
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.7 seconds 10.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1845 kg 1045 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 3670 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1470 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1670 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2320 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.8 L/100km 6.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 41 L