1971 Citroen SM vs. 1988 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1988 Suzuki Alto is newer by 17 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 120 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 840 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Alto. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 1988 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Citroen | Suzuki |
| Model | SM | Alto |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 55 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 30 L |
