2004 BMW 318 vs. 1955 Citroen 2CV

To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 832 kg more than 1955 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Citroen 2CV, 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, 2004 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 318 1955 Citroen 2CV
Make BMW Citroen
Model 318 2CV
Year Released 2004 1955
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 425 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 113 HP 12 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 3500 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 23 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 66 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 62 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 7.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 558 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3610 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1490 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 19 L