1973 Citroen SM vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 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 (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 85 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1999 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2840 mm |
