1971 Citroen SM vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 38 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (173 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 80 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle.
Because 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle 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. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SM | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2460 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
