1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 26 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 57 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 1998 BMW Z3. 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | Z3 | SM |
Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 235 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1452 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |