1970 Citroen GS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Citroen GS would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1970 Citroen GS. (54 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1970 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 945 kg more than 1970 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Citroen GS, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Citroen GS. (70 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Citroen GS. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1970 Citroen GS has manual transmission. 1970 Citroen GS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Citroen GS 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Citroen Mercedes-Benz
Model GS E
Year Released 1970 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1015 cc 2143 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 54 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 70 Nm 500 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 16.2:1
Top Speed 143 km/hour 244 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 880 kg 1825 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 80 L