2008 BMW 320 vs. 1974 Citroen GS

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Citroen GS, 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 320 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (88 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 1974 Citroen GS
Make BMW Citroen
Model 320 GS
Year Released 2008 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 1222 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 161 HP 58 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 88 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 65.6 mm
Top Speed 223 km/hour 151 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4130 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 43 L