1971 Citroen SM vs. 1956 Citroen DS
To start off, 1971 Citroen SM is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (65 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 192 kg more than 1956 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (133 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 1956 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | SM | DS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 65 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1258 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 63 L |
