2008 BMW 316 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 35 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 (171 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 2008 BMW 316. 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 (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 316 | SM |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 25 L |
