1971 Citroen SM vs. 1960 MG MGA
To start off, 1971 Citroen SM is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 MG MGA 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 52 more horse power than 1960 MG MGA. (106 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1960 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 550 kg more than 1960 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 MG MGA 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 1960 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Citroen SM | 1960 MG MGA | |
Make | Citroen | MG |
Model | SM | MGA |
Year Released | 1971 | 1960 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2390 mm |