1972 Citroen SM vs. 1997 Ford Explorer
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 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 (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 450 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1997 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | SM | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2840 mm |
