1974 Citroen SM vs. 1990 Fiat 126
To start off, 1990 Fiat 126 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen SM 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 1990 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 805 kg more than 1990 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Fiat 126 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 1990 Fiat 126. 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 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 1990 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | SM | 126 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 703 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 50 L |
