1949 Citroen 2CV vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 595 more horse power than 1949 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1949 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 2335 kg more than 1949 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1949 Citroen 2CV, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 978 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1949 Citroen 2CV 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV SL
Year Released 1949 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 375 cc 5980 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 10 HP 605 HP
Torque 22 Nm 1000 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 2830 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 80 L