1972 Citroen SM vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 285 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SM | S |
Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2669 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 3090 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 62 L |