1972 Citroen SM vs. 1948 Jaguar XK
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1948 Jaguar XK. (160 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1948 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 78 kg more than 1948 Jaguar XK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Jaguar XK 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 1948 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1948 Jaguar XK (264 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1948 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1948 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Citroen | Jaguar |
| Model | SM | XK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 3442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 106 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1372 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 63 L |
