2001 BMW 320 vs. 1956 Citroen DS

To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1956 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW 320 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 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen DS, 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, 2001 BMW 320 (330 Nm) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 2001 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1956 Citroen DS has manual transmission. 1956 Citroen DS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 320 1956 Citroen DS
Make BMW Citroen
Model 320 DS
Year Released 2001 1956
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1994 cc 1909 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 137 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 78 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 100 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1140 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1530 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 3130 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 6.9 L/100km 10.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 63 L