1970 Citroen DS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Citroen DS would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1970 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1970 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 685 kg more than 1970 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Citroen DS | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | S |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 3090 mm |
