1974 Citroen SM vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 559 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (800 Nm) has 563 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SM | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2009 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 80 L |
