2003 BMW X5 vs. 1989 Citroen XM

To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen XM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen XM would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (130 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 885 kg more than 1989 Citroen XM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Citroen XM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (177 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1989 Citroen XM has manual transmission. 1989 Citroen XM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW X5 1989 Citroen XM
Make BMW Citroen
Model X5 XM
Year Released 2003 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 338 HP 130 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 8.8:1
Top Speed 240 km/hour 193 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2195 kg 1310 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1720 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2860 mm