1959 Citroen DS vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 55 kg more than 1959 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS, 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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (189 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Citroen DS | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | DS | SE |
Year Released | 1959 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2193 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 189 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 72.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |