2009 BMW 520 vs. 1986 Citroen CX

To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen CX would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 520 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Citroen CX. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1986 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2009 BMW 520 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen CX. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen CX.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 520 1986 Citroen CX
Make BMW Citroen
Model 520 CX
Year Released 2009 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 206 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 16.0:1 8.7:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1585 kg 1420 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4910 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 3100 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L