1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1968 Datsun 1800
To start off, 1968 Datsun 1800 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Datsun 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Datsun 1800 (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Datsun 1800 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Datsun 1800 weights approximately 366 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Datsun 1800 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 Datsun 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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 Datsun 1800 (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1968 Datsun 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1968 Datsun 1800 | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | 2CV | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1816 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 52 L |
