2009 BMW 120 vs. 1989 Citroen BX

To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen BX would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1989 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1989 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen BX, 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, 2009 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen BX. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen BX. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1989 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1989 Citroen BX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 120 1989 Citroen BX
Make BMW Citroen
Model 120 BX
Year Released 2009 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1360 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 168 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 66 L