1971 Citroen DS vs. 1961 NSU Prinz IV
To start off, 1971 Citroen DS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 NSU Prinz IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 NSU Prinz IV would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Citroen DS (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 647 kg more than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 NSU Prinz IV 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 1961 NSU Prinz IV. 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 NSU Prinz IV. (44 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 NSU Prinz IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1961 NSU Prinz IV | |
| Make | Citroen | NSU |
| Model | DS | Prinz IV |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 44 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2050 mm |
