1959 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 410 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (350 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS CLS
Year Released 1959 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1911 cc 3498 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 137 Nm 350 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 7.5:1 10.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1730 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 80 L