1959 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 530 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 790 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (998 Nm) has 861 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | SL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
