1966 BMW 1600 vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 1974 Citroen SM is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 BMW 1600 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 85 more horse power than 1966 BMW 1600. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1966 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 530 kg more than 1966 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 BMW 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 1966 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 BMW 1600. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
1966 BMW 1600 | 1974 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 1600 | SM |
Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1574 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 25 L |