2004 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Citroen AX

To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Citroen AX 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 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Citroen AX. (52 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1988 Citroen AX. 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, 1988 Citroen AX, 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 (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen AX. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen AX.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 318 1988 Citroen AX
Make BMW Citroen
Model 318 AX
Year Released 2004 1988
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1360 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 84 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 22.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 3510 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2290 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 43 L