1972 Citroen SM vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 34 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 333 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | E |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
