1959 Citroen DS vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 23 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 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (204 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 290 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | 380 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2860 mm |
