1987 Citroen BX vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 1987 Citroen BX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen SM (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1987 Citroen BX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 377 kg more than 1987 Citroen BX. 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, 1974 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen BX. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen BX | 1974 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | BX | SM |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1073 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2960 mm |
