2008 BMW X3 vs. 1989 Citroen XM

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen XM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen XM would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1989 Citroen XM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (225 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 1989 Citroen XM
Make BMW Citroen
Model X3 XM
Year Released 2008 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2492 cc 1905 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 225 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.5:1
Top Speed 213 km/hour 202 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.6 seconds 10.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 1500 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4970 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 80 L