1971 Citroen SM vs. 2011 Ferrari California
To start off, 2011 Ferrari California is newer by 40 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 4,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ferrari California is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ferrari California (460 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ferrari California should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ferrari California weights approximately 285 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.
Because 2011 Ferrari California is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Ferrari California. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Ferrari California (483 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ferrari California will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2011 Ferrari California | |
| Make | Citroen | Ferrari |
| Model | SM | California |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 460 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4562 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1308 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 78 L |
