1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380

To start off, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1956 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1956 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen 2CV 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV 380
Year Released 1956 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 374 cc 3839 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 10 HP 205 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 78.9 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1615 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 5140 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3080 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 90 L