1964 Austin Princess vs. 1972 Citroen SM

To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1964 Austin Princess. (119 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Austin Princess weights approximately 728 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.

Because 1964 Austin Princess 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 1964 Austin Princess. 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, 1964 Austin Princess (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1964 Austin Princess will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.

Compare all specifications:

1964 Austin Princess 1972 Citroen SM
Make Austin Citroen
Model Princess SM
Year Released 1964 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3993 cc 2670 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 119 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 235 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2180 kg 1452 kg
Vehicle Length 5470 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 3360 mm 2950 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 72 L 89 L