1956 Citroen DS vs. 1961 Ford Popular
To start off, 1961 Ford Popular is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Citroen DS (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1961 Ford Popular. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Citroen DS weights approximately 410 kg more than 1961 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Popular 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 1961 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen DS, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen DS | 1961 Ford Popular | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | DS | Popular |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
