1972 Citroen SM vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,668 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (180 HP) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (123 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra.
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 (231 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (162 Nm). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1972 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1972 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2668 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.9 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
