1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 336 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | SL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 80 L |
