2001 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 27 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1974 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1974 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | M3 | SM |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 25 L |
