1973 Citroen SM vs. 1971 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1971 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 260 kg more than 1971 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Reliant Scimitar 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 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1971 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1971 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | SM | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2540 mm |
