1972 Citroen SM vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 53 L |
