1971 Citroen SM vs. 1963 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1971 Citroen SM is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Opel Kadett 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 111 more horse power than 1963 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1963 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 748 kg more than 1963 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Opel Kadett 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 1963 Opel Kadett. 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Opel Kadett. (70 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 1963 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2330 mm |
