1966 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Citroen DS would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1966 Citroen DS. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1966 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 11 kg more than 1966 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Citroen DS. (177 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1966 Citroen DS 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS SLK
Year Released 1966 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2175 cc 3199 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 349 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 177 Nm 450 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1450 kg 1461 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4020 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 3140 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 25 L 62 L