1973 Citroen SM vs. 2003 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2003 Lotus Exige is newer by 30 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 5 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Exige. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Because 2003 Lotus Exige 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 2003 Lotus Exige. 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Exige. (168 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 2003 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | SM | Exige |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2310 mm |
