1957 Citroen DS vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,911 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Citroen DS (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Citroen DS weights approximately 370 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1957 Citroen DS (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Citroen DS | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | DS | 12 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2450 mm |
