1957 Alpine A 106 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 106. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 106. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 897 kg more than 1957 Alpine A 106. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Alpine A 106 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 1957 Alpine A 106. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 106. (57 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 106.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 106 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Alpine | Citroen |
| Model | A 106 | SM |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 845 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 89 L |
