1972 Citroen SM vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 27 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 72 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 Lotus Esprit 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (542 Nm) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | SM | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2430 mm |
