1959 Citroen DS vs. 1971 AC 428
To start off, 1971 AC 428 is newer by 12 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 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 AC 428 weights approximately 110 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 1971 AC 428 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 1971 AC 428. 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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1971 AC 428 | |
| Make | Citroen | AC |
| Model | DS | 428 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2450 mm |
