1956 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 48 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 445 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen DS 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS C
Year Released 1956 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1909 cc 2597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 400 Nm
Engine Bore Size 78 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 100 mm 88.3 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 69 L