1959 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 240 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | S |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 223 Nm |
| 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 | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2950 mm |
