1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1984 Austin Ambassador is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 245 kg more than 1984 Austin Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1973 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | Ambassador | SM |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2960 mm |
