1969 Citroen DS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 35 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1969 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1969 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 425 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Citroen DS.

Compare all specifications:

1969 Citroen DS 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model DS C
Year Released 1969 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1985 cc 5439 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 102 HP 361 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 152 Nm 510 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1210 kg 1635 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 62 L