1972 Citroen SM vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 16 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (185 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM.
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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (259 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (231 Nm). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 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. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Citroen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | SM | 164 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2668 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.9 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2670 mm |
