1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2008 Lexus IS

To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 52 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 960 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 2008 Lexus IS 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 2008 Lexus IS. 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, 2008 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen 2CV 2008 Lexus IS
Make Citroen Lexus
Model 2CV IS
Year Released 1956 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 374 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 10 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 75.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 75 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1455 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 70 L