1972 Citroen SM vs. 1976 Opel Commodore
To start off, 1976 Opel Commodore is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,783 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1976 Opel Commodore. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 167 kg more than 1976 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Opel Commodore 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 1976 Opel Commodore. 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Commodore. (216 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1976 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 40 L |
