1972 Citroen SM vs. 1980 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1980 TVR Tasmin is newer by 8 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 TVR Tasmin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1980 TVR Tasmin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 TVR Tasmin. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 TVR Tasmin 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 1980 TVR Tasmin. 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 TVR Tasmin. (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 TVR Tasmin.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1980 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Citroen | TVR |
| Model | SM | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 60 L |
