2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1971 Citroen SM
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 36 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 3,193 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1971 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 355 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 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1971 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Citroen |
| Model | 159 | SM |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3193 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 322 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 89 L |
