1972 Citroen SM vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 582 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1972 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1972 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen SM | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
Model | SM | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 51 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |