1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is newer by 56 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 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 582 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 939 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. 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, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 578 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | Citroen | McLaren |
| Model | 2CV | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 374 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
