1972 Citroen SM vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 41 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 53 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | C |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4591 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2008 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1444 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2760 mm |
