1956 Citroen DS vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1970 Lotus Seven is newer by 14 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 1,911 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (65 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Citroen DS weights approximately 688 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. 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 | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Seven |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1258 kg | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2240 mm |
