1973 Citroen SM vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 425 kg more than 1973 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 88 L |
