2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen SM (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2000 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen SM weights approximately 290 kg more than 2000 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1974 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (190 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara | SM |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 25 L |
