1974 Citroen SM vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 36 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM.
Because 2010 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen SM | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Citroen | BMW |
| Model | SM | 550 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 3066 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 70 L |
