2003 BMW X3 vs. 1979 Citroen CX

To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen CX would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1979 Citroen CX. (107 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1979 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Citroen CX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen CX. (166 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen CX. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1979 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW X3 1979 Citroen CX
Make BMW Citroen
Model X3 CX
Year Released 2003 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 107 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 166 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 87.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.2:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 1390 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4970 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 3100 mm