1974 Citroen SM vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 34 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 71 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | SM | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 52 L |
