1970 Citroen DS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 33 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1970 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1970 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 310 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Citroen DS | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | C |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2760 mm |
