1974 Citroen SM vs. 1959 Ford Popular
To start off, 1974 Citroen SM is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Popular would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen SM (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1959 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 715 kg more than 1959 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ford Popular 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 1959 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Popular.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Citroen SM | 1959 Ford Popular | |
Make | Citroen | Ford |
Model | SM | Popular |
Year Released | 1974 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 26 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 63 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1440 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2300 mm |