1972 Citroen SM vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 26 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, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 39 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | SM | Contour |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 54 L |
