1971 Citroen SM vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC 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, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 62 kg more than 2012 Scion tC.
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, 1971 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion tC. (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion tC. 2012 Scion tC 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. 2012 Scion tC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen SM | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Citroen | Scion |
| Model | SM | tC |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |
