2009 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Citroen XM

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Citroen XM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Citroen XM 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 299 more horse power than 1990 Citroen XM. (115 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1990 Citroen XM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1990 Citroen XM, 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 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Citroen XM. (174 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Citroen XM.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1990 Citroen XM
Make BMW Citroen
Model M3 XM
Year Released 2009 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 414 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 245 km/hour 193 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1280 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1400 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.3 L/100km 11.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 66 L