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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 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. 1999 BMW 323 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. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | 323 | SM |
Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1452 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2950 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 89 L |