1999 BMW 323 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 27 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 7 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 323 | SM |
Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2669 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 25 L |