1971 Citroen DS vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1979 Datsun Laurel is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 27 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Because 1979 Datsun Laurel 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | DS | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2680 mm |
