1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 45 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 580 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 705 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 2001 Volkswagen W12 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 2001 Volkswagen W12. 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 598 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | W12 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 374 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | W |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
