2003 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Citroen Xantia
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Citroen Xantia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Citroen Xantia would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Citroen Xantia. (109 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1996 Citroen Xantia. 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, 1996 Citroen Xantia, 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Xantia. (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Xantia. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1996 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1996 Citroen Xantia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1996 Citroen Xantia | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 520 | Xantia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
