1974 Citroen SM vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 27 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen SM (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 560 kg more than 1974 Citroen SM.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | CLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 80 L |
