1999 BMW Z9 vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 1999 BMW Z9 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen SM would be higher. At 3,901 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z9 (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM.
Because 1999 BMW Z9 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 Z9. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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 Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 1971 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | Z9 | SM |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3901 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2950 mm |
