1971 Citroen SM vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 35 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1971 Citroen SM. 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 2006 Volvo V50 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. 2006 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | SM | V50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 62 L |
