1972 Citroen SM vs. 1990 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1990 Ford Tempo is newer by 18 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 77 more horse power than 1990 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 300 kg more than 1990 Ford Tempo. 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 (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1990 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | SM | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2540 mm |
