1971 Citroen DS vs. 1964 Triumph Vitesse

To start off, 1971 Citroen DS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Triumph Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Triumph Vitesse 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 28 more horse power than 1964 Triumph Vitesse. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1964 Triumph Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 332 kg more than 1964 Triumph Vitesse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1964 Triumph Vitesse 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 1964 Triumph Vitesse. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Triumph Vitesse. (125 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Triumph Vitesse.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Citroen DS 1964 Triumph Vitesse
Make Citroen Triumph
Model DS Vitesse
Year Released 1971 1964
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1985 cc 1594 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 98 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 151 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 66.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.5 mm 76 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 8.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1212 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 3890 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1530 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 3130 mm 2270 mm