2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 20 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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, 1972 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | 156 | SM |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 25 L |
