1972 Citroen SM vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 72 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1972 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Citroen SM | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
Model | SM | Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |