1957 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 24 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 12 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Citroen DS weights approximately 510 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1957 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Citroen DS | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | DS | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2410 mm |
