1986 BMW 730 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1986 BMW 730 is newer by 14 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 730 (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 730 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 730 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 1986 BMW 730. 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, 1986 BMW 730 (275 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
1986 BMW 730 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 730 | SM |
Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2960 mm |