1971 BMW 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 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 70 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 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 BMW 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 3 | SM |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 25 L |
