1962 Citroen DS vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1962 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1962 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Citroen DS weights approximately 114 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. 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 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
