2003 BMW 520 vs. 1972 Citroen DS
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,347 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 398 kg more than 1972 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 1972 Citroen DS | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 520 | DS |
Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2347 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 85.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1272 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3130 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |