2003 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Citroen AX

To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Citroen AX would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Citroen AX. (57 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 682 kg more than 1988 Citroen AX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Citroen AX, 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, 2003 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen AX. (88 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen AX.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 318 1988 Citroen AX
Make BMW Citroen
Model 318 AX
Year Released 2003 1988
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1124 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 57 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 88 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 72 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 69 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 708 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3530 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2290 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 43 L