1969 Citroen DS vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 16 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 32 more horse power than 1969 Citroen DS. (102 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1969 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 278 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Citroen DS | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | 230 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
