1972 Citroen SM vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 64 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| 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 | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 52 L |
