1956 Citroen DS vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 42 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 102 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen DS | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | DS | Contour |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2710 mm |
