1959 BMW 700 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 2,668 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (180 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 1959 BMW 700. 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 (231 Nm) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (50 Nm). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 700 | SM |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 695 cc | 2668 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 126 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2960 mm |
