2001 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Citroen XM

To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen XM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen XM would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Citroen XM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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 M3 (330 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (235 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 1989 Citroen XM has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Citroen XM will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 1989 Citroen XM
Make BMW Citroen
Model M3 XM
Year Released 2001 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 2975 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 317 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 235 Nm
Top Speed 249 km/hour 220 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 1420 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2860 mm