2009 BMW M3 vs. 1959 Citroen DS
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen DS would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS, 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 M3 (400 Nm) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1959 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | DS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
