1972 Citroen SM vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 108 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | E |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 70 L |
