1971 Citroen SM vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 36 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 175 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 2007 Opel Vectra 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. 2007 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 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 | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 60 L |
