1969 Citroen DS vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 5 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Citroen DS (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Citroen DS weights approximately 260 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1969 Citroen DS (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Citroen DS | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | DS | 12 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2450 mm |
