1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 203 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 1973 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Cavalier | SM |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 25 L |
