1972 Citroen SM vs. 2009 Lexus RX
To start off, 2009 Lexus RX 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 3,439 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus RX weights approximately 460 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 2009 Lexus RX 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, 2009 Lexus RX 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, 2009 Lexus RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2009 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | SM | RX |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 3439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 73 L |
