1959 Citroen DS vs. 1970 Renault 12
To start off, 1970 Renault 12 is newer by 11 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 1,911 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Citroen DS (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1970 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1970 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Citroen DS weights approximately 420 kg more than 1970 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1959 Citroen DS (137 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Renault 12. (95 Nm). This means 1959 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1970 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | DS | 12 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
