1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1311 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1959 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1959 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen 2CV 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model 2CV S
Year Released 1959 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 423 cc 3199 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 12 HP 221 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 25 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 84 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1806 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2380 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 88 L