1959 Citroen DS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 44 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), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 740 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm) has 663 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | S |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 800 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 | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 3090 mm |
