1959 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 45 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 315 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Citroen DS 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS C
Year Released 1959 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 5439 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 361 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 510 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 7.5:1 11.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1635 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L