1972 Citroen SM vs. 1959 MG MGA
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 MG MGA would be higher. At 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1959 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1959 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 550 kg more than 1959 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 MG MGA 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 1959 MG MGA. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen SM | 1959 MG MGA | |
Make | Citroen | MG |
Model | SM | MGA |
Year Released | 1972 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1489 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
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 | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2390 mm |