2007 BMW 523 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 2007 BMW 523 is newer by 34 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 (180 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2007 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 523.
Because 2007 BMW 523 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 2007 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1973 Citroen SM (233 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523. 2007 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1973 Citroen SM has manual transmission. 1973 Citroen SM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 523 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 523 | SM |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2960 mm |
