1959 Citroen DS vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300

To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 26 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (113 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 90 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen DS 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS 300
Year Released 1959 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 185 Nm
Engine Bore Size 78.1 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 100 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 7.5:1 22.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1410 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L