1956 Citroen DS vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (75 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 410 kg more than 1956 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1956 Citroen DS | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | S |
Year Released | 1956 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1911 cc | 4520 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 223 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 378 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1730 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2870 mm |