1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 49 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1350 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | SL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 423 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 90 L |
