2009 BMW X3 vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 384 kg more than 1972 Citroen SM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Citroen SM. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 2009 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | X3 | SM |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 89 L |
