1951 Citroen 2CV vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 459 more horse power than 1951 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1951 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1445 kg more than 1951 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1951 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 679 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Citroen 2CV. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1951 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1951 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1951 Citroen 2CV 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV CLS
Year Released 1951 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 375 cc 5439 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 10 HP 469 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 701 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2650 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 515 kg 1960 kg
Vehicle Length 3610 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1710 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 80 L