1972 Citroen SM vs. 1978 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 304 is newer by 6 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 500 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1978 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | SM | 304 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 42 L |
