2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 990 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ariel Atom 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 2001 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Ariel Atom | 1973 Citroen SM | |
Make | Ariel | Citroen |
Model | Atom | SM |
Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2960 mm |