1996 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 432 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1998 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
