1974 Citroen SM vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 35 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 325 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1974 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Citroen SM | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Citroen | Mazda |
Model | SM | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1307 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 237 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 64 L |