1972 Citroen SM vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 37 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 54 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (119 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 197 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2009 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Citroen | Hyundai |
| Model | SM | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1253 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 53 L |
