1959 Citroen DS vs. 1968 Lotus 49
To start off, 1968 Lotus 49 is newer by 9 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 2,993 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Lotus 49 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus 49 (405 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus 49 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Citroen DS weights approximately 612 kg more than 1968 Lotus 49.
Because 1968 Lotus 49 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 1968 Lotus 49. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1968 Lotus 49 | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | 49 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1968 |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 405 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 516 kg |
