1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1956 Citroen DS
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 162 kg more than 1956 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen DS, 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 Z3 (275 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1956 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Z3 | DS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 63 L |
