1973 Citroen SM vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 29 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 30 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 30 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | C |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 60 L |
