1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen SM would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 270 kg more than 1971 Citroen SM.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 1971 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1971 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 1971 Citroen SM | |
Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
Model | Caprice | SM |
Year Released | 1981 | 1971 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2950 mm |