1990 Citroen BX vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1990 Citroen BX is newer by 18 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Citroen BX. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1990 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 315 kg more than 1990 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Citroen BX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Citroen BX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Citroen BX. (173 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Citroen BX | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | BX | SM |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2960 mm |
