2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen SM (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen SM weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 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, 1971 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | 156 | SM |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 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 | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 89 L |
