1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Citroen LN
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Citroen LN. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Citroen LN 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 298 more horse power than 1978 Citroen LN. (35 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Citroen LN. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 683 kg more than 1978 Citroen LN. 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, 1978 Citroen LN, 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 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Citroen LN. (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Citroen LN.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1978 Citroen LN | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Z3 | LN |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 50 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 43 L |
