1955 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 98 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 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 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM, 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. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has automatic transmission and 1972 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1972 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
Model | Bel Air | SM |
Year Released | 1955 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4343 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1452 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2950 mm |