1973 Citroen SM vs. 1971 Fiat 500
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 970 kg more than 1971 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 500 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 1971 Fiat 500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1971 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | SM | 500 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 2980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 1850 mm |
