1957 Citroen 2CV vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1957 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1957 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 1115 kg more than 1957 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Citroen 2CV | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | 280 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 95 L |
