2008 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Citroen SM
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen SM would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1974 Citroen SM. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1974 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1974 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Audi | Citroen |
| Model | A3 | SM |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 25 L |
