1990 BMW 520 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1990 BMW 520 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (180 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520.
Because 1990 BMW 520 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 520. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Citroen SM (233 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 520 | SM |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2960 mm |
