2005 Audi A8 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 32 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 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 550 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Audi A8 (560 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A8 | SM |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 25 L |
