1974 Citroen SM vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | SM | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 62 L |
