2005 BMW 320 vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 34 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, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1971 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1971 Citroen SM (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 320 | 1971 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 320 | SM |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 89 L |
