1973 Citroen SM vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 321 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen SM | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | SM | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 60 L |
