1956 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,638 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette (245 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1956 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1956 Chevrolet Corvette. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette (393 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (231 Nm). This means 1956 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Chevrolet Corvette | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Corvette | SM |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4638 cc | 2668 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2960 mm |
