1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen SM would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 20 kg more than 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Monte Carlo | SM |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 25 L |
