1972 Citroen SM vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 40 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 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 563 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Audi |
| Model | SM | A8 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 90 L |
