1955 Citroen 2CV vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1177 kg more than 1955 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Citroen 2CV. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1955 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1955 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1955 Citroen 2CV 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV S
Year Released 1955 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 425 cc 3722 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 12 HP 242 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 23 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 84 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 558 kg 1735 kg
Vehicle Length 3610 mm 5170 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3090 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 62 L