1968 Citroen DS vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1968 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 160 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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:
| 1968 Citroen DS | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 67 L |
