1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1986 Citroen BX
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen BX 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 227 more horse power than 1986 Citroen BX. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 358 kg more than 1986 Citroen BX. 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, 1986 Citroen BX, 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen BX. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1986 Citroen BX | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Z3 | BX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 88 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 66 L |
