1974 Citroen SM vs. 1960 Peugeot 203
To start off, 1974 Citroen SM is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Peugeot 203 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) has 126 more horse power than 1960 Peugeot 203. (44 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1960 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 525 kg more than 1960 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Peugeot 203 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 1960 Peugeot 203. 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 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 1960 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Citroen | Peugeot |
| Model | SM | 203 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 44 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 70 L |
