1956 Citroen DS vs. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 2,305 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (75 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Citroen DS weights approximately 20 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1965 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1956 Citroen DS | 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | SL |
Year Released | 1956 | 1965 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2305 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 196 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |