1971 Citroen DS vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1971 Citroen DS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 (120 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 10 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1971 Citroen DS (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190. (145 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DS | 190 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2660 mm |
