1972 Citroen SM vs. 1963 NSU 1000 C
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 NSU 1000 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 NSU 1000 C 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 119 more horse power than 1963 NSU 1000 C. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1963 NSU 1000 C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 812 kg more than 1963 NSU 1000 C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 NSU 1000 C 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 1963 NSU 1000 C. 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 NSU 1000 C. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 NSU 1000 C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1963 NSU 1000 C | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | SM | 1000 C |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 44 L |
