1969 Citroen DS vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1969 Citroen DS. (115 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Citroen DS weights approximately 90 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Citroen DS | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | SL |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2175 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2410 mm |
