1972 Citroen SM vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 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 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 99 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. 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) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Citroen | Toyota |
| Model | SM | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 75 L |
