1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 48 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 484 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1455 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 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 678 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen 2CV 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV S
Year Released 1956 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 374 cc 5441 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 10 HP 494 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 700 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 92 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1950 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 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 88 L