1971 Austin 3 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | SM |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2960 mm |
