1972 Citroen SM vs. 2012 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Optra 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 933 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
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 (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Optra. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 2012 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Citroen | Chevrolet |
| Model | SM | Optra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 2385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 60 L |
