1971 Citroen SM vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo is newer by 18 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 62 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 300 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | SM | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2540 mm |
