1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1981 Citroen LN
To start off, 1981 Citroen LN is newer by 22 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 652 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Citroen LN is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Citroen LN (35 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Citroen LN should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Citroen LN weights approximately 215 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.
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, 1981 Citroen LN (50 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Citroen LN will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1981 Citroen LN | |
| Make | Citroen | Citroen |
| Model | 2CV | LN |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 423 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 50 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 43 L |
