1963 Abarth 1600 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 1600 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 3 more horse power than 1963 Abarth 1600. (155 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1963 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 708 kg more than 1963 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Abarth 1600 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 1963 Abarth 1600. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Abarth 1600. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Abarth 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 1600 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 1600 | SM |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 744 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2950 mm |
