1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 1974 Citroen SM is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen SM (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 850 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1974 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1974 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | SM |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 25 L |
