2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Citroen Xantia

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Xantia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Xantia 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 325 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xantia. 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, 1998 Citroen Xantia, 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 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (142 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xantia.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 1998 Citroen Xantia
Make BMW Citroen
Model M3 Xantia
Year Released 2009 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1761 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 414 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1285 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2750 mm