1973 Citroen SM vs. 1971 NSU 1000
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 NSU 1000 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 133 more horse power than 1971 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1971 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 790 kg more than 1971 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 NSU 1000 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 NSU 1000. 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 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1971 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | SM | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2260 mm |
