1990 BMW 316 vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 19 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 370 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. 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, 1971 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1971 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 316 | SM |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 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 | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 89 L |
