2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 30 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 22 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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, 1973 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | Spider | SM |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 25 L |
