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 84 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 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 310 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) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). 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 | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 63 L |
