1959 Citroen DS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 43 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1007 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm) has 664 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1959 Citroen DS has manual transmission. 1959 Citroen DS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | S |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
