1962 Citroen DS vs. 1959 Fiat 1200
To start off, 1962 Citroen DS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,911 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Citroen DS (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1200. (62 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Citroen DS weights approximately 255 kg more than 1959 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Fiat 1200 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 1959 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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:
| 1962 Citroen DS | 1959 Fiat 1200 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | DS | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 1221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 38 L |
