1960 Citroen DS vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 53 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1960 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1960 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 561 kg more than 1960 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 663 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Citroen DS | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | SL |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| 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 | 82 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90 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 | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2585 mm |
