1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1998 Citroen Saxo

To start off, 1998 Citroen Saxo is newer by 39 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 954 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Saxo (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Saxo weights approximately 310 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, 1998 Citroen Saxo (74 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Saxo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen 2CV 1998 Citroen Saxo
Make Citroen Citroen
Model 2CV Saxo
Year Released 1959 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 423 cc 954 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 12 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 25 Nm 74 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 70 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 62 mm
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 805 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 3730 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2380 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 45 L