1997 BMW 850 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 25 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 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP) has 149 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (231 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1972 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1972 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 850 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 850 | SM |
Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5379 cc | 2668 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 329 HP | 180 HP |
Torque | 490 Nm | 231 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 74.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2960 mm |