1957 Citroen 2CV vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 16 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1957 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1957 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 800 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 1973 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 1973 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1973 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 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | 280 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 64 L |
