1971 Citroen SM vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 41 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, 1971 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 BMW 118. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 30 kg more than 2012 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. 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, 2012 BMW 118 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | SM | 118 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 51 L |
