1984 BMW 316 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1984 BMW 316 is newer by 12 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 376 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. 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 (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 316 | SM |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 25 L |
