2003 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Citroen GS
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen GS would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1973 Citroen GS. (107 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Citroen GS, 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1973 Citroen GS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | GS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
