1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1973 Citroen GS
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen GS would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1973 Citroen GS. (107 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 253 kg more than 1973 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Citroen GS, 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 Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1973 Citroen GS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Z3 | GS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 56 L |
