1971 Citroen SM vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 114 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 2005 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SM | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |
