1957 BMW 503 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 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1957 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 503 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1957 BMW 503 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 BMW 503. 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 (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1957 BMW 503 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 503 | SM |
Year Released | 1957 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 25 L |