1973 Citroen SM vs. 1974 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1974 Opel Ascona is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen SM 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 (180 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1974 Opel Ascona. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Ascona.
Because 1974 Opel Ascona 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 1974 Opel Ascona. 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 (233 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1974 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2440 mm |
