1956 Citroen DS vs. 2008 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 52 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (65 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 819 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 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (133 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 2008 Ford Explorer 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. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen DS 2008 Ford Explorer
Make Citroen Ford
Model DS Explorer
Year Released 1956 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 4013 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 65 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 133 Nm 344 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 7.5:1 9.7:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1258 kg 2077 kg
Vehicle Length 4980 mm 5350 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1850 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 3320 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 85 L