1956 Citroen DS vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 49 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 615 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen DS | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | SL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.9 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
