1971 Citroen SM vs. 1970 Reliant Bug
To start off, 1971 Citroen SM is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Bug. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Bug 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 127 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Bug. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Bug. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 1042 kg more than 1970 Reliant Bug. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Reliant Bug 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 1970 Reliant Bug. 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 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Reliant Bug. (52 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Reliant Bug.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 1970 Reliant Bug | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | SM | Bug |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 61 mm |
| 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 | 408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 2800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 1960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 23 L |
