1970 Citroen DS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1970 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1970 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 745 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 S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Citroen DS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | S |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2860 mm |
