1963 Bristol 408 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,129 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Bristol 408 (215 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Bristol 408 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM.
Because 1963 Bristol 408 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 Bristol 408. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1963 Bristol 408 (463 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (233 Nm). This means 1963 Bristol 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM. 1963 Bristol 408 has automatic transmission and 1973 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1973 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1963 Bristol 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1963 Bristol 408 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
Make | Bristol | Citroen |
Model | 408 | SM |
Year Released | 1963 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5129 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 180 HP |
Torque | 463 Nm | 233 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 86.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 74.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2960 mm |