1974 Citroen SM vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 325 kg more than 1974 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | E |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 80 L |
