2008 BMW 318 vs. 1979 Citroen CX

To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Citroen CX. (107 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 180 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 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Citroen CX, 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, 2008 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen CX. (166 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen CX.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 318 1979 Citroen CX
Make BMW Citroen
Model 318 CX
Year Released 2008 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 107 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 166 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 87.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.2:1
Top Speed 207 km/hour 165 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4970 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 3100 mm