1971 Citroen SM vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 43 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SM | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |
