1972 Citroen SM vs. 1996 Jaguar XK
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK is newer by 24 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Jaguar XK (290 HP) has 110 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1996 Jaguar XK 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 1996 Jaguar XK. 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, 1996 Jaguar XK (393 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (231 Nm). This means 1996 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM. 1996 Jaguar XK 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. 1996 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1996 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Citroen | Jaguar |
| Model | SM | XK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2668 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 290 HP |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 251 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 3040 mm |
