1971 Citroen SM vs. 2004 Opel Astra

To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 35 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 2004 Opel Astra 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. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Citroen SM 2004 Opel Astra
Make Citroen Opel
Model SM Astra
Year Released 1971 2004
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2670 cc 1795 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 158 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 235 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 80.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 88.2 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 1350 kg
Vehicle Length 4900 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 89 L 52 L