1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 798 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 Caterham C21. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | Caterham | Citroen |
Model | C21 | SM |
Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1452 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2950 mm |