1959 Citroen DS vs. 1989 Lexus LS

To start off, 1989 Lexus LS is newer by 30 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 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 498 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 1989 Lexus LS 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 1989 Lexus LS. 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen DS 1989 Lexus LS
Make Citroen Lexus
Model DS LS
Year Released 1959 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 3969 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 242 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 350 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 1818 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2820 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 85 L