1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Citroen C5
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 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 129 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C5. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 162 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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, 2009 Citroen C5, 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C5. (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2009 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Z3 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| 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 | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 66 L |
