2009 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 36 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1973 Citroen SM. (171 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen SM weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 2009 BMW M3. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
Make | BMW | Citroen |
Model | M3 | SM |
Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2670 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 25 L |