1959 Citroen DS vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 50 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 987 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | DS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
