1973 Citroen SM vs. 2005 Renault Clio
To start off, 2005 Renault Clio 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 2,945 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Clio (251 HP @ 7150 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 40 kg more than 2005 Renault Clio.
Because 2005 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio. 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 Renault Clio (300 Nm @ 4650 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 2005 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | SM | Clio |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2945 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7150 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 61 L |
