1968 Citroen DS vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 40 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1968 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1968 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 505 kg more than 1968 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Citroen DS 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS E
Year Released 1968 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 98 HP 187 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 151 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.5 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 17.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1210 kg 1715 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 65 L