1972 Citroen SM vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1600 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) has 105 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 477 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volkswagen 1600 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 1968 Volkswagen 1600. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1968 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SM | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 40 L |
