1997 BMW M3 vs. 1959 Citroen DS
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen DS would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 172 kg more than 1959 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1959 Citroen DS | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | M3 | DS |
Year Released | 1997 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1911 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 137 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1128 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1530 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3130 mm |