1956 Citroen DS vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 22 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (75 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Citroen DS weights approximately 16 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1978 Datsun 280Z 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1956 Citroen DS has manual transmission. 1956 Citroen DS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen DS | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | DS | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
