1972 Citroen SM vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1972 Citroen SM is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 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 55 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 490 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mazda RX-2 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 1971 Mazda RX-2. 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen SM | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
Make | Citroen | Mazda |
Model | SM | RX-2 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2480 mm |