1972 Citroen SM vs. 1997 Lexus SC
To start off, 1997 Lexus SC is newer by 25 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 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1972 Citroen SM. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen SM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus SC weights approximately 100 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 1997 Lexus SC 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 1997 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1997 Lexus SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen SM. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen SM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1997 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | SM | SC |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 66 L |
