1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1972 Citroen DS
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1972 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 359 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS, 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1972 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Citroen |
| Model | 100 | DS |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 3130 mm |
