1973 Citroen SM vs. 1954 GAZ M-20
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1954 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1954 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM.
Because 1954 GAZ M-20 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 1954 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 GAZ M-20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1954 GAZ M-20 | |
| Make | Citroen | GAZ |
| Model | SM | M-20 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1954 |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2120 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
