1972 Citroen SM vs. 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
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 Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 115 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 602 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 Karmann-Ghia. 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 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (103 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1968 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SM | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 40 L |
