1996 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen SM would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1974 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1974 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | SM |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2960 mm |
