1977 BMW 520 vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 1977 BMW 520 is newer by 3 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 36 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1974 Citroen SM.
Because 1977 BMW 520 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 1977 BMW 520. 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, 1977 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
1977 BMW 520 | 1974 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 520 | SM |
Year Released | 1977 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 25 L |