1969 Citroen DS vs. 1966 Ford Zephyr

To start off, 1969 Citroen DS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford Zephyr (105 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1969 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1969 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 90 kg more than 1969 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1966 Ford Zephyr 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 1966 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 1966 Ford Zephyr (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1969 Citroen DS 1966 Ford Zephyr
Make Citroen Ford
Model DS Zephyr
Year Released 1969 1966
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1985 cc 2495 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 102 HP 105 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4750 RPM
Torque 152 Nm 180 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.5 mm 79.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1210 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 2930 mm