1956 Citroen DS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 56 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1956 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 595 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen DS. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen DS | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | E |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
