1973 Citroen SM vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1982 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Citroen SM (180 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1982 Lotus Esprit 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 1973 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Citroen SM | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Citroen | Lotus |
Model | SM | Esprit |
Year Released | 1973 | 1982 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 158 HP |
Torque | 233 Nm | 221 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.9 mm | 95.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2490 mm |