1959 Citroen DS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 53 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 444 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 620 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm) has 562 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | CLS |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
