1973 Citroen SM vs. 1991 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Lotus Esprit is newer by 18 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 8 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1991 Lotus Esprit 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1991 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | SM | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2460 mm |
