1972 Citroen SM vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 33 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 53 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | C |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 62 L |
