1960 Citroen DS vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Citroen DS would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 1960 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1960 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Citroen DS weights approximately 84 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm) has 582 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1960 Citroen DS | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
Model | DS | W12 |
Year Released | 1960 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1911 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 82 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 719 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |