1973 Citroen SM vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1999 Opel Vectra 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 3 more horse power than 1999 Opel Vectra. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 20 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Vectra. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2650 mm |
