2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1972 Citroen SM
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara 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 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (161 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1972 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara | SM |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1749 cc | 2669 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 25 L |
