1972 Citroen SM vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 9 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 70 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen SM | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SM | S |
Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2599 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2950 mm |