1990 BMW 316 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 17 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 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 400 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, 1973 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 316 | SM |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1480 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 |
