1973 Citroen SM vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 7 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), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Citroen SM | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SM | 280 |
Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
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 | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 90 L |