1972 Citroen SM vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 445 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | S |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 88 L |
