1956 Citroen DS vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Citroen DS weights approximately 480 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. 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 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 29 L |
