1971 Citroen SM vs. 2001 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara is newer by 30 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 52 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (106 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 202 kg more than 2001 Citroen Xsara. 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 2001 Citroen Xsara 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. 2001 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2001 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | SM | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 54 L |
