1973 Citroen SM vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Citroen SM | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SM | S |
Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 85 L |