1956 Citroen DS vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 51 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 820 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (706 Nm) has 569 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen DS | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | SLK |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 706 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.9 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
