1959 Citroen DS vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 25 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 10 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Citroen DS weights approximately 475 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm). This means 1959 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen DS 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model DS Rabbit
Year Released 1959 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 1715 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 117 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 845 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2410 mm