1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1971 NSU 1000
To start off, 1971 NSU 1000 is newer by 12 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 996 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 NSU 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 NSU 1000 (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 NSU 1000 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 NSU 1000 weights approximately 165 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 1971 NSU 1000 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 1971 NSU 1000. 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, 1971 NSU 1000 (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 NSU 1000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1971 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | 2CV | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 423 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2260 mm |
