1972 Citroen SM vs. 1959 Renault Dauphine
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Renault Dauphine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Renault Dauphine would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1959 Renault Dauphine. (33 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1959 Renault Dauphine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 820 kg more than 1959 Renault Dauphine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Renault Dauphine 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 Renault Dauphine. 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 (235 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Renault Dauphine. (45 Nm). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Renault Dauphine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1959 Renault Dauphine | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | SM | Dauphine |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 45 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 38 L |
