2003 Citroen C3 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen C3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (227 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 356 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 2013 BMW 3 Series has manual transmission. 2013 BMW 3 Series will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | C3 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1379 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
