1960 Citroen 2CV vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1960 Citroen 2CV. (11 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1960 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1350 kg more than 1960 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 Citroen 2CV, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Citroen 2CV. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1960 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1960 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Citroen 2CV | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | SL |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 11 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
