1971 Citroen SM vs. 1997 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 26 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM.
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, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 1997 Oldsmobile SS 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. 1997 Oldsmobile SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 1997 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Citroen | Oldsmobile |
| Model | SM | SS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
