1972 Citroen SM vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1378 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 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | C |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 62 L |
