1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1973 Citroen SM
To start off, 1973 Citroen SM is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 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 (180 HP) has 160 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. 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 (233 Nm) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 500 | 1973 Citroen SM | |
| Make | Abarth | Citroen |
| Model | 500 | SM |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 478 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2960 mm |
