1961 Citroen 2CV vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1346 kg more than 1961 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Citroen 2CV. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1961 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1961 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Citroen 2CV | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2CV | E |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1841 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 80 L |
