1956 Citroen DS vs. 2011 Lexus IS

To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 55 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 575 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 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (502 Nm) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 2011 Lexus IS 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen DS 2011 Lexus IS
Make Citroen Lexus
Model DS IS
Year Released 1956 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1909 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 416 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 502 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 1715 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4661 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1816 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1415 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 2728 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 64 L