1972 Citroen SM vs. 1981 Porsche 944
To start off, 1981 Porsche 944 is newer by 9 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 28 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 105 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 1981 Porsche 944. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1981 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Citroen | Porsche |
| Model | SM | 944 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
