1994 Audi A8 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1994 Audi A8 is newer by 22 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 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Audi A8 (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Audi A8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM. 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, 1994 Audi A8 (249 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A8 | SM |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 2669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2960 mm |
