1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 51 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 592 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1625 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 974 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (26 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen 2CV 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV SL
Year Released 1956 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 425 cc 5980 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 12 HP 604 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 26 Nm 1000 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 93 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 2120 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 80 L