2009 BMW M3 vs. 1960 Citroen DS

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 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 1960 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1960 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, 1960 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 @ 3900 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Citroen DS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1960 Citroen DS
Make BMW Citroen
Model M3 DS
Year Released 2009 1960
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
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 7.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 1400 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 3140 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 43 L