1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 50 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), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 482 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1185 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 676 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | SL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 80 L |
