1958 Abarth 500 vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 1971 Citroen SM is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen SM (158 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Abarth 500 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 1958 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1971 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 1971 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 500 | SM |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 75 mm |
| 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 | 445 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 89 L |
