1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1980 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 8 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 352 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Chrysler | Citroen |
| Model | 1609 | SM |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2950 mm |
