2009 BMW 120 vs. 2003 Citroen C3

To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Citroen C3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Citroen C3 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 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3. 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, 2003 Citroen C3, 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 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 120 2003 Citroen C3
Make BMW Citroen
Model 120 C3
Year Released 2009 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1628 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 106 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 16.0:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1175 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 60 L