1971 Citroen SM vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen SM 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 47 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 345 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 1981 Fiat 131. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 1981 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1971 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1971 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Citroen SM | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Citroen | Fiat |
Model | SM | 131 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2500 mm |