1961 Citroen DS vs. 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Citroen DS would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1961 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 535 kg more than 1961 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Citroen DS | 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercury |
| Model | DS | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2910 mm |
