1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 359 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (55 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 556 kg more than 1997 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 1997 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | Xsara | M3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1099 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
