1972 Citroen SM vs. 1961 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 97 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 259 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 1961 Ford Zodiac. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1961 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | SM | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 40 L |
